After a lifelong love affair with all things creative—including a childhood obsession with Martha Stewart Living as well as a fine arts degree from Ohio Wesleyan University—it’s no surprise that Karly Depew has found her success in the design world. In 2006, after a successful stint as the head invitation designer for Paper Source in Boston, Depew and her husband moved to Columbus, Ohio, and Oscar & Emma Custom Design Studio was born. Now, in addition to being the mother of a 3-year old daughter—with twins on the way!—she spends her days creating a range of delightful stationery goods, all hand-designed with Depew’s signature mix of elegant script and playful color. Here, she talks the importance of good tiling and natural light with domino.

Where do you feel most inspired?

It doesn't matter where I am; inspiration comes to me in many ways. However, I often find myself jotting down ideas right before bedtime. I keep a notebook and pen on my bedside table for those late-night flowing thoughts.

How would you describe your personal style?

I love the combination of modern and organic, while throwing in a little classic touch.

What makes a home beautiful? Open space and good natural light. But it's most important to be true to yourself and fill your home with items that have personal meaning and make you happy.

What’s your most prized possession?

My three-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Maeve; she means everything to me and keeps me laughing and feeling grateful each and every day. And she is excited to become a big sister to twin siblings this November!

On what items do you scrimp?Lately, I have been scrimping on rugs. With children and two cats in

the house, many good ones have been ruined—so it's Flor tiles for now. They are interchangeable if you want a fresh look, and really easy to clean.

On what do you splurge? I splurge on lighting and wallpaper. Good lighting is so important to me, but a unique fixture can also be a great statement piece for a room. We are currently in the process of remodeling areas of our midcentury-modern home. I have been eyeing some beautiful wallpaper that I definitely plan to incorporate into the new decor.